The Crucible by Arthur Miller takes place during the volatile time of the Salem Witch Trials in Massachusetts, 1692. Miller used real people and real events to interpret the horrors which occurred. Though records of this time are sketchy at best, the play comes across feeling quite real and plausible.

Reverend Parrish’s daughter and his ward, Abigail, are found dancing in the woods with a few other young girls. Immediately they are accused of witchcraft, and Parrish brings in an expert on the matter, Reverend Hale. The girls confess and begin naming other “witches” in the community. What begins with lies and jealousy ends in hysteria, madness and executions.

The Crucible is one of those plays they require you read in school, though if you’re like me and missed out, it’s definitely worth it to pick it up. Those interested in history and the Salem Witch Trials obviously need to read through this one, though I think this play has a wide appeal.

I found the book to be incredibly emotional and dramatic. It affected me more than I thought it would, honestly. Going into this, I thought it might be dry and academic (as is often the case with classic literature), a long, deep read. I was very wrong - this was riveting, engaging, and a very quick read.

After finishing the Crucible, I wanted to see a production of the written play, as it is intended to be understood. I can easily imagine the horrific and captivating stage production of Miller’s play.

I recommend this book not only because it’s a classic and it showcases an important historical time in American history, but also because it is honestly frightening. After finishing this, it haunted me for a long time; the thought of how easily this happened, and how events like it could happen again, truly frightened me.

When you hear “history” and “literature” associated with a written work, many may cringe and groan. You might expect The Crucible to be yet another classic work you’re “supposed” to read, but if you tend to stay away from classics, you owe it to yourself to pick up this one. This is one you will enjoy.